The Classic Bow Shoe Is Back

There is no shoe that conjures the word “ladylike” as readily as a low-heeled pump with a bow. It’s a style as prim and timeless as a tweed skirt suit — and is perhaps best embodied by Salvatore Ferragamo’s classic round-toed leather Vara pump, which originated in 1978 and has been beloved by first ladies ever since. But recently, the bow shoe has emerged in new shapes, such as the Row’s pointed ankle-tie mules or Freda Salvador’s gingham-trimmed loafers. For Gucci’s resort show, Alessandro Michele accessorized many of his maximalist looks with beribboned mid-heel pumps. Dressed like teenagers reinterpreting their grandmothers’ clothes, these characters were, he said, “ladies who aren’t ladies.” Here, eight perfect versions of the bow shoe.